Photo: Shutterstock London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith has paid tribute to the 343 firefighters who lost their lives during the September 11 attacks in New York, marking the 25th anniversary of the tragedy.
Smith said the thoughts of everyone at London Fire Brigade were with the families and friends of those who died, as well as all those affected by the attacks.
Firefighters on 9/11. Photo: Shutterstock“Today, on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the thoughts of everyone across London Fire Brigade are with the family and friends of those who died in the attacks and all those who were affected by the tragedy,” Smith said.
The attacks on September 11, 2001, saw four passenger aircraft hijacked by terrorists. Two were flown into the World Trade Center towers in New York, while another struck the Pentagon. A fourth aircraft crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to regain control of the plane.
Among those who responded in New York were hundreds of firefighters who entered the World Trade Center as people were trying to escape the buildings. A total of 343 New York City firefighters died that day.
Smith said the firefighters and other emergency responders faced an “unimaginable situation” and demonstrated courage while putting themselves in danger to help others.
“The crews that attended, alongside all the emergency responders, demonstrated incredible bravery, courage and determination by putting themselves in danger to rescue others and save lives,” he said.
“Today we recognize their sacrifice in the line of duty.”
The tribute comes as emergency services and communities around the world mark 25 years since the attacks. For firefighters, police officers, paramedics and other first responders, the anniversary remains closely connected to the lives lost while responding to the unfolding disaster.
London Fire Brigade has its own experience of responding to major incidents and preparing crews for complex emergencies. Jonathan Smith has served as London Fire Commissioner since July 2025 and has overall responsibility for the Brigade.
The Brigade has also continued to focus on lessons learned from major disasters, including changes to operational procedures, communications, training and equipment following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.